Highland Metal Roofing

Highland / Frequently asked questions

Good questions.
Clear answers.

From choosing your roof to caring for it. Find practical answers for your home, cottage and eavestrough system.

46 questions
8 topics
One place to start

46 answers to explore

Planning & quotes

Where to start, what to share and how we plan the work.

What do I need to request a quote?

Start with the property’s town or lake area, whether this is a replacement or new build, and the work you have in mind. Mention leaks, drainage problems and access restrictions. You do not need roof measurements or a chosen panel to begin.

Request a free quote →
Do I need to choose a panel before contacting you?

No. Highland can help you compare profiles and colours as the scope takes shape. If you have a favourite visualizer design, include it with your enquiry; it is a starting point for the conversation.

Do you work in my area or at my cottage?

Highland serves Toronto, the GTA and Ontario cottage country, including Muskoka, Haliburton and the Kawarthas. Share your location and any seasonal-road, driveway or delivery-access limitations so we can discuss the project.

See our service areas →
What should be included in a roofing quote?

Look for the selected profile and finish, removal or preparation of the existing roof, the approach to decking repairs, underlayment, ventilation, flashings, snow management, disposal and cleanup. Eavestrough work and any allowances should be clear. Compare the written scope as well as the total.

Understand your roofing quote →
How far ahead should I book?

Get in touch when you begin planning. Availability changes with the season, weather and project scope, so ask Highland about current scheduling rather than relying on a fixed lead time. We call back the same day or the next.

Can you arrange the roof and eavestroughs together?

Yes. Highland offers metal roof installation and eavestrough installation or replacement. Mention both when requesting a quote so the roof edge, fascia, gutter positions and drainage can be considered together. You can also enquire about eavestrough work on its own.

Explore our services →

Cost & long-term value

Compare the whole roof, its upkeep and the claims behind it.

Is a metal roof more expensive than asphalt shingles?

A metal roof typically has a higher initial installation cost. The difference depends on roof area, pitch, access, profile and the preparation and flashing work needed. Compare a project-specific quote and likely upkeep over the time you expect to own the property; there is no single payback period for every house.

Compare roofing costs over time →
What are the main benefits of metal roofing?

Metal roofing offers a choice of profiles and finishes, the potential for a long service life, and steel that can be recovered for recycling. Those benefits depend on the complete roof system: sound support, correct detailing and ongoing care matter as much as the visible panels.

Compare the seven profiles →
How long will a metal roof last?

A well-specified and maintained metal roof can serve for decades. Its actual life depends on the environment, installation, coating condition and how promptly damage is addressed. A coating warranty is not a prediction of roof life or a guarantee that every roof component will last the same number of years.

Read about roof longevity →
How much could I save on energy bills?

There is no reliable percentage for every home. Roof reflectance, colour, insulation, air leakage, local climate and heating and cooling use all affect the result. Ask about the whole roof assembly; a new metal surface alone does not establish an energy-saving figure.

Explore energy and sustainability →
How does maintenance compare with asphalt shingles?

The maintenance tasks differ. Metal roofs need checks of flashings, penetrations, drainage, coating damage and any exposed fasteners. Asphalt roofs also need their own condition checks and repairs. Metal roofing can offer long service, but it should not be budgeted as maintenance-free.

See what metal-roof care involves →
Is metal roofing an environmentally responsible choice?

A long service life and recovery of steel for recycling can reduce replacement waste. Production, transport, the amount of material used and local recycling options also matter. Recycled content and environmental performance vary by product; we do not apply one percentage or blanket comparison to every roof.

Panels & finishes

Find a profile that suits both the building and the roof.

How do I choose between the panel profiles?

Compare the appearance from the ground, the scale of the pattern and the home’s architecture, then check suitability for the roof pitch and details. Highland’s range includes Banff, Tremblant, Standing Seam, Mont Blanc, Estima, Whistler and Enigma.

Find your roof profile →
Will the roof look exactly like the visualizer?

The visualizer helps you compare designs. Screens, light and viewing angle change how a finish appears, and its houses are illustrations. Confirm your chosen finish with a physical sample before making the final selection. Banff is available in black only.

Try the roof visualizer →
Where can I find panel drawings and dimensions?

The Banff, Tremblant, Mont Blanc, Estima, Whistler and Enigma pages include technical drawings and dimension tables in millimetres and approximate inches. You can enlarge or download the drawing. Contact Highland for the confirmed Standing Seam specification and the available variant for your project.

Open the panel collection →
What is the difference between overall width and cover width?

Overall width measures the full panel. Effective cover width is the width it covers after the side overlap with the next panel. Use the specified cover width when planning coverage, and allow for the actual roof layout, cuts and details rather than estimating from the overall width alone.

What is the difference between exposed and concealed fasteners?

Exposed-fastener systems have visible fixings through the panel; concealed-fastener systems hide the attachment within the joint or beneath the adjoining panel. They require different installation details. Choose the complete system for the roof rather than treating the fixing methods as interchangeable.

Compare fixing methods →

Installation

Preparation, roof details and what happens on site.

Can you install metal roofing over existing shingles?

Sometimes, but it is a decision for the specific roof. The existing layers, decking, moisture condition, roof details and applicable installation requirements need assessment. Covering an unsound roof can conceal problems. Ask for the proposed preparation and any removal work to be stated in the quote.

Understand an over-roof installation →
How long does installation take?

Roof size and complexity, access, removal work, repairs and weather all affect the schedule. Highland can discuss a working timeframe after reviewing the scope. Unexpected decking damage or unsuitable weather can change that plan.

What is the minimum roof pitch for metal roofing?

There is no single minimum for all metal panels. The selected profile, joint design, roof length and installation requirements determine suitability. Have Highland confirm the measured pitch against the specific system; do not apply a generic standing-seam or tile-panel limit to another product.

Understand roof pitch →
Should screws go through the rib or the flat of a panel?

Follow the installation instructions for the exact profile and fixing system. Location, fastener type, spacing and tightening requirements are specific to the panel and supporting structure. A rule taken from another panel can create an incorrect connection.

Can I install a metal roof myself?

Metal roofing involves work at height, panel handling, flashing fabrication and system-specific fixing details. The drawings and 3D views on this website are for understanding the products, not a complete installation manual. Discuss the installation with an experienced roofing contractor.

Why does installation matter as much as the panel?

The roof must manage water at valleys, walls, eaves, ridges and penetrations, as well as across its main surface. Underlayment, ventilation, support and allowance for movement also need to work together. A durable panel cannot compensate for a poorly detailed connection.

See how the roof fits together →
What happens to my garden, driveway and property during the work?

Discuss vehicle access, material storage, plants, decks and areas that need special protection before work begins. Highland cleans up daily. The project scope should explain disposal and the final site cleanup, along with any access you need to keep available.

Plan for work at your property →

Weather & comfort

Rain, heat, snow and the building beneath the panels.

Are metal roofs noisy in rain or hail?

The sound indoors depends on the whole assembly, including the roof deck, attic or ceiling space and insulation. An open structure with exposed metal overhead behaves differently from an insulated home. Mention noise sensitivity when discussing the roof build-up.

Read about rain noise →
Can anything be done to reduce roof noise?

Have the existing roof and ceiling assembly assessed before choosing an acoustic treatment. Insulation and the ceiling construction can influence sound transmission, but any proposed change must also suit ventilation and moisture control. Do not assume an added foam insert is suitable for every panel.

Will a metal roof make my house hotter in summer?

Metal alone does not determine indoor temperature. Finish reflectance, colour, insulation, ventilation and air leakage all play a role. A reflective finish may reduce absorbed solar heat, but the effect on comfort and annual energy use depends on the building and climate.

Read about summer comfort →
Does a metal roof attract lightning?

Metal does not attract lightning, but it conducts electricity. A metal roof is not, by itself, a lightning-protection system. If the property needs lightning protection, have the building assessed for an appropriate system.

Read about metal roofs and lightning →
What should I consider for Ontario winters and exposed cottage sites?

Discuss snow accumulation and shedding, wind exposure, tree debris, seasonal access and drainage around the property. Entrances, walkways and decks need particular attention when planning snow retention. The roof and its fixings must be selected for the building’s conditions.

Plan for a cottage winter →
Will a new metal roof prevent ice dams or condensation?

A new covering alone does not resolve every moisture problem. Ice dams and condensation can involve heat escaping from indoors, air leakage, insulation and ventilation. Tell Highland about existing winter leaks or attic moisture so the underlying conditions can be considered.

Understand ice dams →

Maintenance & repairs

Keep the roof, finish and drainage working together.

Does a metal roof need maintenance?

Yes. Watch for debris buildup, damaged finishes, loose or displaced components and changes around flashings and drainage. Arrange a professional inspection when you notice damage or a leak. The appropriate inspection and care schedule depends on the site and the system.

Explore routine roof care →
How should a metal roof be cleaned?

Use the care instructions for the actual coating and have safe access assessed. Avoid abrasive tools, unapproved chemicals or aggressive washing that may damage the finish or force water into joints. Ask Highland about an appropriate cleaning approach for the stains and roof condition.

Explore roof cleaning →
Are metal roofs slippery, and can I walk on mine?

Metal roofing can be slippery, particularly when wet, frosty or icy. Foot traffic can also damage panels if the wrong areas are loaded. Use ground-level observations for your own checks and arrange suitable professional access for roof work.

Does a leak mean I need a whole new roof?

Not necessarily. A leak can originate at a flashing, penetration, joint or damaged area rather than across the whole roof. An assessment should identify the source and the condition of the surrounding system before comparing repair and replacement.

Discuss a roof repair →
Can a metal roof be repainted?

Some roofs can be recoated, but the existing finish, corrosion, surface preparation and compatibility of the proposed coating need assessment first. Repainting does not repair failed flashings or structural problems. Ask about the existing finish and written warranty terms before choosing a coating.

Read about repainting →

Eavestroughs & drainage

Choose the right fittings and understand their upkeep.

How is Highland’s steel eavestrough system connected?

It is a modular, jointed system. Gutter lengths, corners, outlets and downpipes connect through compatible fittings, with brackets and clamps supporting the runs. Highland plans the arrangement around the roofline, supporting surfaces and discharge route.

Explore the complete system →
How do I know which gutter and downpipe sizes I need?

The roof area being drained, outlet positions, run layout and discharge arrangement all matter. Technical drawings identify component measurements, but a nominal size alone does not establish that two parts fit or that the drainage is adequate. Ask Highland to confirm the complete layout.

Can I replace just one eavestrough component?

A local repair may be possible if the adjoining components and supporting structure remain sound. Share photos and any known dimensions or system details. Similar-looking fittings from different systems may not connect correctly; confirm compatibility before selecting a replacement.

Browse all 25 components →
Do gutter guards mean I never need to clean the gutters?

No. Guards can reduce some debris entering the channel, but leaves or needles can collect on top and outlets still need attention. The tree cover, guard design and roof drainage affect how often the system needs checking.

Explore gutter protection →
How often should eavestroughs be checked?

Check their condition and flow seasonally and after heavy debris fall or storms. Properties under trees may need more frequent attention. Overflow, sagging, leaking joints or discharge near the foundation are reasons to investigate. Arrange safe access rather than reaching from an unsuitable ladder.

Know what to look for →

Warranties & insurance

Know which promise applies to which part of the project.

What is Highland’s workmanship warranty?

Highland provides a 5-year workmanship warranty. This is separate from the manufacturers’ material and coating warranties. Ask for the written terms with your proposal so you can review the responsibilities for your installation.

Understand the separate warranties →
What warranty applies to the roof-panel coating?

The coating on Banff, Tremblant, Mont Blanc, Estima, Whistler and Enigma carries a 45-year warranty from the manufacturer. This is a coating warranty, separate from Highland’s installation workmanship. Confirm Standing Seam’s applicable terms with Highland; do not assume the same figure applies.

What warranty applies to the eavestrough system?

The steel eavestrough system carries a 40-year warranty from its manufacturer. Highland’s 5-year workmanship warranty is separate. Ask for the written terms and confirmation of the cover for your selected components, including specialist accessories.

Does the warranty transfer when I sell the property?

Ask Highland for the written terms for your particular installation and products. Transferability, exclusions and any required paperwork must be established from those documents; they should not be assumed from the warranty’s headline duration.

Will my home insurance cover a metal roof or offer a discount?

Ask your insurer about the proposed roof before making assumptions about cover or pricing. Coverage, claim treatment and any discount depend on your policy and insurer. Share the selected roof details and request confirmation of how the change would affect your policy.

Is Highland insured?

Highland carries $5 million in liability insurance and has WSIB coverage. Ask for current documentation when planning your project.

Learn about Highland →

Let’s talk about your roof.

Tell us what you’re planning. You don’t need all the answers yet.